The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is the ultimate destination for outdoor explorers, especially those looking for free camping opportunities.
But you’ll have a lot of options to choose from. So, how can you pick?
Today, we’re talking about why you should visit the UP, and offering five excellent budget camping locations.
Let’s get into it!
Why Add Upper Michigan to Your Free Camping Bucket List?
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, also known as the UP, is a striking destination for outdoor adventures.
With waterfront real estate on Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, and Lake Huron, there are plenty of aquatic activities to keep you busy. Boating, fishing, paddling, and swimming are all popular during the summer. There are also tons of hiking trails through emerald forests, many of which lead to stunning waterfalls, interesting geological formations, and expansive scenic views.
During the winter, many of the UP’s 4,300+ inland lakes freeze over and become excellent places to skate and snowshoe. You’ll also find more than 3,000 miles of groomed snowmobile trails.
Choosing when to visit the UP depends on the activities you want to experience, your budget, and your camping goals. If you dream of ice skating along the lakes and taking a dog-powered sled ride, plan your trip for winter. However, many campgrounds turn off the water or close completely during colder months.
Many campers visit during summer when the average highs are in the upper 70s. Others plan their trip for fall to take advantage of the striking autumn colors.
Whenever you decide to head to Michigan, be sure to check out these free camping destinations!
Hungry for more? Satisfy your cravings by digging into a Michigan Red Hot!
#1 Bond Falls West Campground
Bond Falls Scenic Site is owned by the Upper Peninsula Power Company, which operates the flowage system in Paulding, Michigan. Fractured rock along the Ontonagon River has resulted in a cascading 50-foot waterfall.
This destination is typically open from May to October, but the hiking trails are available year-round. However, they might not be maintained during winter months. Other activities include paddling, fishing, and cycling. A boardwalk spanning the property offers six viewing locations of the waterway.
The Bond Falls West Campground offers some of the best free camping in Upper Michigan. You’ll find about 25 RV sites, some of which can accommodate rigs up to 40 feet. There are vault toilets, as well as hand-pumped water access. A nearby general store ensures you’ll have all the necessities.
Find It Here: 46.3953, -89.1394.
#2 Raco Airfield Dispersed Camping
Our next budget camping site in the UP is on a decommissioned airbase. Raco Airfield is in Hiawatha National Forest, near Brimley, Michigan. To get here, you’ll take a narrow road with low-hanging trees. However, the space opens once you arrive, allowing 10 to 15 rigs to fit comfortably.
Don’t expect any amenities, but if you’re lucky, you might land a spot with a concrete pad. The location is within eyesight of the nearby Smithers Rapra Winter Test Center. If you visit during the colder months, you might see some of their vehicles in action. At other times of the year, you can stroll the recreational trails and take in the serene atmosphere of Hiawatha National Forest.
When you try to find Raco on a map, simply look for the massive white triangle in the western UP.
Find It Here: 46.3528, -84.829.
Planning your trip? Find out about The Most Dangerous Creatures in Lake Michigan!
#3 Sturgeon River Campground
Ottowa National Forest is home to our next budget camping destination in Upper Michigan. Here, you can hike the Sidnaw Creek Trail, fish along the flowing waters, or simply take in the natural beauty around you.
Sturgeon River Campground features about ten dry campsites perfect for RVers. Spots are spacious and private, with plenty of foliage separating you from your neighbors. Some are also perched right over the river.
You won’t have access to any amenities except sparkling clean vault toilets. However, your proximity to the water will make up for it. You can cast a line from the rocky shore to catch brown trout and steelhead for dinner.
We hear that the mosquitos here are especially vicious during the summer, so pack plenty of bug spray.
Find It Here: 46.57, -88.656.
#4 Hovey Lake Campground
Back in Upper Michigan’s Hiawatha National Forest, you can enjoy ultimate serenity at Hovey Lake Campground. Located on the eastern side of the lake, this is the perfect spot to canoe, fish for pike, bass, and panfish, and watch for migratory birds.
While the official website says there are only four sites, we hear you can find many places to boondock on the road to the campground and surrounding areas. Each established site has a picnic table and fire ring, and you’ll have access to a vault toilet.
The road to the Hovey Lake Campground can be tricky in bigger rigs. Consider scouting out the location before hauling your whole setup through the forest. If the designated campsites are full, you can probably find another suitable spot nearby.
Find It Here: 46.291, -86.701.
#5 Sparrow Rapids Campground
Once again, our final budget camping location in the UP is in Ottowa National Forest. This destination features six established, level campsites with fire rings, picnic tables, and two vault toilets.
Ottawa National Forest encompasses one million acres of rolling hills, dense forests, and lakes to explore. You’ll have plenty of exciting recreational opportunities to keep you busy, including hiking, fishing, and paddling. Of course, bugs tend to take over in summer, but a high-quality bug spray should help you fight off any pests. Sparrow Rapids Campground is maintained between May and October.
Find It Here: 46.5047, -88.947.
Get inspired with a copy of Secret Upper Peninsula: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure!
Upper Michigan’s Free Camping is Purely Delightful!
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is an idyllic area with stunning sights and plenty of fun activities to enjoy. If you want to explore the wilderness, spot wildlife, catch your own dinner, and take in striking scenery, the UP is the place to be!
The next time you head to this part of the country, don’t miss the chance to hit some of the best free camping in Michigan!
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